This delightful Chardonnay from the Languedoc region of southern France is made by the Laroche Family, famous from their beautiful Chablis wines in northern Burgundy.  Michel Laroche, recognizing the potential of the Orb Valley, midway between the cities of Toulouse and Montpelier and only 20 miles inland from the Mediterranean Sea, began his explorations in the 1980’s.  He established Mas la Chevalière in 1996 and built a modern winemaking facility in 2003.  Mas la Chevalière is comprised of approximately 45 hectares of vines, but Laroche also works with like-minded growers, giving him access to more fruit.  His goal is to convert to organic viticulture and to convince his partners to do likewise. 
The 2022 Chardonnay before you is just one of the delicious wines and affordable wines that he produces from trellised vineyards planted in the varied soils and microclimates of the district.  Situated at higher altitudes and pruned for lower yields, the vines benefit from abundant sunshine as well as the cooling influence of the nearby sea. The Chardonnay does not see any oak influence at all so what you’re experiencing is just pure, fresh fruit with a wonderful lift of acidity.  It makes a wonderful partner to lighter cuisine, especially seafood and, my favorite, oysters. In these days of expensive, over-oaked Chardonnays, it’s a real pleasure to re-discover the pleasures and versatility of well-made Chardonnay. – Frank Rothstein